The flat arch on the north elevation (roof side) of the southwest tower is in three pieces. It spans an opening of eight feet. The visible joints of the keystone are perpendicular thus giving a gravity defying impression, but in fact concealing arch joints. A brick relieving arch was built in the hearting above to discharge some of the load above away from the opening.
“I remember us having quite a lot of difficulty with the installation as the pieces were quite large and unwieldly and difficult to position on the falsework. I think Jim Bambridge had long awaited a chance to use this type of arch.”
– Steve Boyle, Master Mason
The title block for the unique flat arch for the tower drawing above, rendered March 29, 1980, by J. R. Bambridge, Master Builder.
Stephen Boyle was raised in Yorkshire, England. He began working with stone at age 18 at the Yorkminster Cathedral stoneyard. After his three year apprenticeship he started on restoration work at Salisbury Cathedral. Both cathedrals dated from the 12th century. Salibury Cathedral is pure Gothic throughout. James Bambridge hired him to begin the setting of stone on the Southwest Tower in 1981.
- Special thanks to Steve Boyle for all the information and images in this post.